Washington: North Korea could potentially resume dialogue with the United States, but only under the condition that it is recognized as a permanent nuclear power. This was revealed by former US diplomat Ned Price, according to NK News.

According to Anadolu Agency, Price, who served as a US State Department spokesperson, discussed these developments at an online forum hosted by the Institute for Corean-American Studies. He referenced recent statements made by Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, describing them as a significant shift in Pyongyang's diplomatic stance. Kim Yo Jong indicated that talks could occur if the US retracts its denuclearization demands.

Price highlighted that North Korea previously left room for disarmament, but now firmly requires nuclear recognition as a prerequisite for any discussions. He speculated on whether President Donald Trump would agree to such terms, noting that the Trump administration's focus on appearances over substantive negotiations could make this scenario feasible.

Seth Bailey, the acting deputy assistant secretary in the State Department's East Asia bureau, also responded to Kim Yo Jong's statement, emphasizing that Washington is closely monitoring the situation. Meanwhile, South Korea's Unification Ministry reiterated that both South Korea and the US remain open to dialogue with North Korea to achieve peace on the Korean Peninsula.

Price underscored the importance of the US-South Korea alliance, calling it "sacrosanct," and cautioned against unilateral actions by China in the Taiwan Strait. His remarks coincide with Washington's contemplation of adjustments to its regional military strategy and President Trump's encouragement for allies to increase their defense spending.